Monday, 17 June 2024. Readings: 1 Kings 21:1-16, Ps. 5:2-3,5-7, Matthew 5:38-42
“If anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; and if anyone would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well!” (Matthew 5:39-40)
Today’s first reading highlights human wickedness in the world. Sometimes, people can be very heartless, inconsiderate and inhumane. Why would you kill someone just to get his property? This story reminds us of Jesus’ parable about the tenants in the vineyard. When it was time for the landowner to collect his share of the harvest, the tenants beat up his servants, killed some and treated others shamefully. When the tenants saw his son, they thought that by killing the heir, the property would become theirs. Jesus concluded the parable by saying: “He will put those wretches to a miserable death, and let out the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the fruits in their seasons.” (Matthew 21:41). However, in today’s Gospel passage, Jesus recommends the exact opposite: “Do not resist one who is evil.” (Matthew 5:39). How are we to reconcile these teachings? Let us consider the lessons in today’s readings.
- Learn to be content with what is yours. The grass will always look greener on your neighbour’s lawn. Whatever is not yours always has more appeal than what belongs to you. If you think you are missing something by not having what this person has, remember that life is not a competition. We brought nothing to this world, and, at death, we will relinquish everything. Avoid sleepless nights over things you do not have; you probably will not value them even if they become yours. Count your blessings; you are always richer than you imagine. You would never know how much God has blessed you until you develop the attitude (mindset) of gratitude.
- Everything is not about money. The story of Naboth teaches us that there are so many things that money cannot buy. Ahab was willing to pay any price for the land because he had the money. He was even willing to give another land in exchange for that piece of land, but Naboth refused to sell it because it was his ancestral inheritance. In my culture, selling the land where your ancestors are buried attracts a curse. Though they have died and their bodies have decayed, they still deserve respect. Do not think that because you have money, you can get anything. Money is limited. As it is often said, do not be so poor that all you have is money.
- Do not become a Jezebel. The name Jezebel has come to be associated with wickedness of all sorts. Meanwhile, if we sincerely search our hearts, we will discover that we all deserve the title of Jezebel. How often have I lied against (or gossiped the ills of) someone close to me because I wanted something from them that they refused to give? How often do I talk down on others out of envy? A friend of yours opens his house or buys a car, and just because you don’t know how they made it, you become a Jezebel by saying they are fraudsters. It is wicked to wish evil on others because they are successful. If you cannot rejoice with those who rejoice, God will never allow good things to come your way. Whatever you wish for anyone is what you get in abundance.
- God knows how to deal with the wicked. The fact that Jesus admonishes us to love our enemy or turn the other cheek when we are slapped does not mean that God supports wickedness. Today’s Gospel passage can be summarised as: “Do not take laws into your hands.” God is not blind. If He can see what we are thinking in our hearts, He can also see what is happening in the world. Do you wonder why God is “slow” – why He doesn’t strike down evil people even before they carry out their wicked plans? The Psalmist replies: “If you, O Lord, should mark our guilt, Lord, who could survive?” (Psalm 130:3). While you point fingers at others, remember that you are not better than those you think deserve to die.
- Hate their sins but love people. The only way to practice what Jesus teaches in today’s Gospel passage is to avoid associating people with their sins. There is a difference between “a wicked person” and “a person who does wicked things.” To describe someone by their sins is to condemn that person. No matter what this person has done, they are not beyond redemption. Lend a helping hand to the needy even if you think they don’t deserve it; you never can tell how much your kindness will generate ripple effects.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, give me the grace to live above my instincts, to forgive, to let go, and to be generous. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Monday of week 11 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 1 Kings 21:1-16, Ps. 5:2-3,5-7, Matthew 5:38-42).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu
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